P-type Cu sub(7)Te sub(5) single-crystalline nanocuboids: size-controlled synthesis and large-scale self-assembly

Cu sub(7)Te sub(5) single-crystalline nanocuboids have been synthesized by a low-temperature solvothermal strategy, using environmentally friendly chemicals. The size, from nanometer to sub-micrometer, was controlled by adjusting the dodecanethiol (DDT) concentration. Through DDT capping, which induced appropriate van der Waals interactions, the alignment of the nanocuboids led to large-scale self-assembly of superstructures or supracrystals. The UV-vis-NIR spectra of the as-prepared nanocuboid colloid exhibited potential LSPR properties. Measurement of the Mott-Schottky impedance potential curve confirmed the p-type conductivity of the as-prepared Cu sub(7)Te sub(5) nanocuboids.